Growing Up McCartney: Mike, Paul's brother, on The Beatles and early life in Liverpool

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  • Опубліковано 11 кві 2022
  • Mike McCartney, brother of The Beatles legend, Sir Paul McCartney, is a legend in his own right. His life story is fascinating. And he shares it all in his first Australian interview. Subscribe» 7news.link/MyBigStory
    To buy "Mike McCartney's Early Liverpool", go to mikemccartneybook.com/
    Michael McCartney is the younger brother of the Beatles legend. And Mike is a legend in his own ride as the frontman of The Scaffold, a musical comedy trio who had global hits in the sixties and seventies.
    But Mike is also a renowned photographer, which is why he's talking to us today. He's released an incredible new book of never before seen photos of his and his brother's life growing up in Liverpool and the early days of The Beatles - the band that would change music history forever.
    In this interview, his first on-camera Australian interview, Michael shares stories of his family, his brother's band, friends and life with The Scaffold.
    It's a fascinating insight into one of the world's most famous families.
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    #TheBeatles #MichaelMcCartney #MyBigStory #Documentary2022
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 505

  • @RetroGameRepublic
    @RetroGameRepublic 2 роки тому +83

    I didn't know anything about Mike before watching this but what a lovely and interesting bloke he is.
    I was just browsing UA-cam and was about to click off this video but after about 15 seconds of watching Mike speak, I was compelled to watch the whole video.
    And his book looks great too!

    • @MyBigStory
      @MyBigStory  2 роки тому +6

      Thanks for sticking around! Appreciate you watching and engaging with us.

    • @77Keith
      @77Keith 2 роки тому +4

      That must have been really cool growing up with Paul

    • @loosilu
      @loosilu Рік тому +3

      @@77Keith Once you know his face, you realize he was there at SO many Beatles events. He is sitting at Paul's feet for the All You Need is Love video, for starters. He very easily have been resentful and jealous, but instead, he went along for the ride. He's had one hell of a great life. On his solo albums, he had (uncredited) appearances by his brother, and also by the likes of Jimi Hendrix and Elton John. Can you imagine?

    • @loosilu
      @loosilu Рік тому +4

      I HIGHLY recommend any books or articles written by Mike. He is by FAR the best writer out of all the of the Beatles associates. He is a fantastic storyteller, informative and hilarious.

    • @wesleycook7687
      @wesleycook7687 7 місяців тому +1

      @@MyBigStory I wonder if Mike knows that Justice For James Paul Mccartney says his brother is dead. I'm sure he does and I know what he would say if the conspiracy theorists did ask him.

  • @docsavage8640
    @docsavage8640 5 місяців тому +23

    Paul and Mike are both so well mannered and conscientious, their dad must have done a wonderful job even without their mother to help.

    • @mightysmith1
      @mightysmith1 4 місяці тому

      He beat them and gambled away their grocery money.

  • @beatlebrian4404
    @beatlebrian4404 2 роки тому +183

    Thank God, Mike took these photographs, the camera is the only time machine we've got.

    • @MyBigStory
      @MyBigStory  2 роки тому +12

      Completely agree. Thanks for watching and engaging with us, and Mike.

    • @jamesdunn9714
      @jamesdunn9714 2 роки тому +2

      Film too.

    • @Yrksman
      @Yrksman 2 роки тому +1

      Sometimes a still picture captures a moment in time better than a movie. Mike’s book and his photographs are a unique record of music history in the making. Thanks Mike.

    • @JoniDiMaggio
      @JoniDiMaggio 2 роки тому +3

      @@jamesdunn9714 PLUS his memories. My goodness he has some wonderful anecdotal stories to tell us. I especially love the stories he has about when they were really young - Adolescent's

    • @loosilu
      @loosilu Рік тому +1

      Mike is an absolute treasure. It's as if Mozart's little brother was there to take pictures.

  • @juliehall2893
    @juliehall2893 2 роки тому +95

    Jim McCartney has always seemed like such a happy, serene man. Thinking of what he went through, losing his wife and having two teenage boys at home, it's hard to fathom how he stayed so upbeat. And mom's salary was gone as well. Great dad, I think. Paul came by his good parenting skills honestly.

    • @markharrisllb
      @markharrisllb 2 роки тому +16

      I think the kindest thing Paul did for his father was not got to his father's funeral at his step mother's request. I've lost both my parents and I’d have hated it being swamped by strangers from the press. He also had contractual obligations he had to honour for his band mates, but I don’t think that played as big a part as respecting his father. He lived with Paul in his latter years, I’ve forgotten where but I doubt it was the farm.

    • @MrStevie777
      @MrStevie777 2 роки тому +17

      yeah, He certainly installed something in those boys, You can see the maturity and respect Paul had for others in Get Back. They were all mature beyond their years.

    • @loosilu
      @loosilu Рік тому +8

      @@markharrisllb Mike's second wedding was swamped by media and fans, as you would expect. You wouldn't want anything like that at a funeral.

    • @derekec
      @derekec Рік тому +6

      @@markharrisllb I recall long ago reading that Paul was on tour with Wings when his father died. If true, I can't imagine how hard that must have been. I've always told myself that they both must have recognized how much happiness came after the tragedy and how much happiness Paul and Mike brought to dad, a musician after all. So to miss the moments of his passing and the funeral were simply a price that had to be paid and an understanding they all must have had. Paul hid it from us..or my eyes at least. It kind of helped with my father's passing. Never thought I'd survive that before it happened but also recognizing you take the bad with the good, try and forgive yourself the bad...remain upbeat and move forward.

    • @gilliankingston8259
      @gilliankingston8259 6 місяців тому +2

      ​​​@@markharrisllbIf you had any decency/respect you wouldn't intrude on someones/a familys sorrow/distress at such a time, I don't know why people cant see that.🌹

  • @jamesjackson-df1hi
    @jamesjackson-df1hi 8 місяців тому +12

    I MET MIKE AT HIS BUNGALOW AROUND THE CORNER FROM PAULS HOME IN HESWALL ON THE WIRRAL. INVITED US INTO HIS HOME, A CUPPA WITH HIM, PHOTOS TAKEN, HE SIGNED MY PIPES OF PEACE ALBUM WITH "NOT QUITE THE ONE YOU WANTED...MIKE MAC".

    • @davidrobinson6353
      @davidrobinson6353 2 місяці тому +2

      Still there see Mike often and Paul walking round the Wirral . Go on UA-cam there’s photos of Paul in Pensby waiting for a Bus to Heswall often seen in Heswall 🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧👏👏👏👍👍✅✅

    • @justice100forwin2
      @justice100forwin2 Місяць тому

      @@davidrobinson6353 Do you ever see them together and do you know what Paul's relationship with his farther was like. As those Paul is dead people on YT say Paul didn't go to his funeral....I so want those people to have their conspiracy theory disproven. I love the Beatles and loved their solo work.

    • @laurencetyson7395
      @laurencetyson7395 9 днів тому

      ​​​@@justice100forwin2Paul didn't attend his Father's funeral at the request of his stepmother. Didn't want it descending into a media circus.

    • @justice100forwin2
      @justice100forwin2 9 днів тому +1

      @@laurencetyson7395 Thank you so much for that info. Helps clear that up.

  • @lawrencewarren7254
    @lawrencewarren7254 2 роки тому +43

    Met Mike and his wife in Liverpool years ago.... Totally down to earth fella.... Met that brother of his too... Same!... Best with the book Mike!

    • @polytheneprentiss1534
      @polytheneprentiss1534 2 роки тому +7

      Damn you’re one fortunate person!!!

    • @thesilvershining
      @thesilvershining Рік тому

      You met BOTH McCartney brothers? I’m extremely jealous but also happy for you 😂

  • @annaburt7609
    @annaburt7609 2 роки тому +67

    Mike McCartney is wonderful! His story telling is as marvelous as his pictures. Thank you!

    • @loosilu
      @loosilu Рік тому +1

      He has a real gift for storytelling. And "someone" put him on this earth to witness one hell of a story.

  • @carolynwoodman1734
    @carolynwoodman1734 2 роки тому +15

    Saw the Scaffold group in Edinburgh in 1960s, and Mike left me a great note about his loves and hates..as I asked. Guess what, no hates. Great guy.
    Best wishes to you all this Easter weekend and forever. ❤

  • @cosmojones4924
    @cosmojones4924 2 роки тому +62

    He documented history as it was beginning even though no one could've possibly have seen what was coming. And he NEVER rode his brother's fame or coat tails. He even changed his name to "McGear" and always denied he was Pauls' brother to fans. Paul always took care of him!

    • @simoncornell2150
      @simoncornell2150 Рік тому +10

      Not true, I met Mike at one of his Photo exhibits in Liverpool a long time ago. He introduced himself as Mike McCartney and gave me a personal tour and his insights of the photos and had a long chat about his brother and the Beatles. Mind you, it was only him and I in the gallery at the time so it was just two guys chatting.

    • @tylsimys67
      @tylsimys67 Рік тому

      @@simoncornell2150 Yeah yeah, like anything that might or might not happened between McCartney's´.

    • @josephrohland5604
      @josephrohland5604 Рік тому +3

      I read where the handlers needed Mike McGear to play "Mike McCartney" so the real Mike McCartney could double for Paul McCartney...

    • @loosilu
      @loosilu Рік тому +7

      @@simoncornell2150 It was certainly true when Mike was actively working in his music/comedy career. He achieved his hits without the McCartney name.

  • @danielfadli8216
    @danielfadli8216 2 роки тому +44

    Soft spoken,humble,down to earth & Great story teller

  • @linkridgeshelties7413
    @linkridgeshelties7413 2 роки тому +22

    Incredibly charming, just like his brother! I bet their father was wonderful as well.

  • @michaelfleming40
    @michaelfleming40 2 роки тому +44

    Mike and Paul McCartney are living legends. They are national treasures in England. 😊 ❤

  • @Yrksman
    @Yrksman 2 роки тому +7

    I bought one of the limited edition (35) signed and framed photographs of John and Paul writing I Saw Her Standing There. Then I went to Forthlin Road and stood right there by the fireplace where Mike stood when he took it. It was a very emotional moment.

    • @Haberdashery22
      @Haberdashery22 3 місяці тому

      How I agree with you! We went to Forthlin last summer... it was so emotional being in there I've got goosepimples just thinking about it.
      What an experience.

  • @realRainz
    @realRainz 2 роки тому +42

    So many generations touched by his brother's music, and now will be with Mike's priceless pictures.

  • @HettiedeKorteDiplomaat
    @HettiedeKorteDiplomaat 2 роки тому +34

    Wonderful to hear from Paul’s brother.

  • @patton303
    @patton303 10 місяців тому +4

    What a sweet and delightful man. Long live the MacCartney brothers.

  • @sandyrickard994
    @sandyrickard994 5 місяців тому +2

    How delightful ❤

  • @johncorner9295
    @johncorner9295 2 роки тому +19

    Met mike many years ago. Nice guy..

  • @eredison8584
    @eredison8584 2 роки тому +12

    I thoroughly enjoyed that Mike . You're right,Sandie Shaw is lovely. For many years I was a professional organist/keyboard player and in the late 70s to 80s,I had the pleasure of backing her 14 times in all.She was a pleasure to work with.

  • @piamoltsen1809
    @piamoltsen1809 2 роки тому +44

    Mike is a wonderful story teller. He was right there together with icons and the swinging London.

    • @MyBigStory
      @MyBigStory  2 роки тому +4

      And don't forget Liverpool! Thanks for watching and commenting

    • @josephrohland5604
      @josephrohland5604 Рік тому

      He IS a wonderful storyteller. I almost believed him.

  • @tazloon
    @tazloon 2 роки тому +10

    Met him a couple of times in the 80's, very charming and funny man......🙂💜

  • @thinkforyourself828
    @thinkforyourself828 2 роки тому +58

    Amazing how every photo and story about the Beatles are such coveted gems. Truly a gift to this world, they are.

  • @cherylbean521
    @cherylbean521 2 роки тому +30

    Haven't seen Mike in years. Nice to see he's up and about.

  • @Larrymarx
    @Larrymarx 2 роки тому +22

    What a wonderful treat for a huge McCartney Fan... Mike! You tell a great story; I definitely can go for more. Godspeed †

  • @davidbarlow431
    @davidbarlow431 2 роки тому +7

    I had some business dealings with Mike a few years back. He's a really nice friendly man who's lived an interesting life in his own right, and he's got an endless stream of funny anecdotes.

  • @rhiannonrede
    @rhiannonrede 2 роки тому +9

    Oh, thank God for these wonderful photos. Thank God for the lads who saved my life. Thank you for everything. I want this book!

  • @deb5710
    @deb5710 2 роки тому +40

    Your personal experiences from a brother's point of view, puts such a unique perspective on the early days of the Beatles. Love your video, Thank You.

  • @DebbieJune
    @DebbieJune 2 роки тому +3

    My grandmother was from Liverpool. I never knew her she passed before I was born. I love to listen to people who are from there thank you🙏🏻✌🏻

  • @lynnturman8157
    @lynnturman8157 2 роки тому +56

    The two brothers sounded similar when they talked & also when they sang (they both had beautiful tenor voices) but you never would know they were brothers just by looking at them, IMO.

    • @maryjensen5310
      @maryjensen5310 2 роки тому +7

      They looked more alike when they were younger.

    • @lindakautzman7388
      @lindakautzman7388 2 роки тому +6

      Funny, I seem to be the only one who thinks they sound and look alike..at least definitely like brothers.

    • @tylsimys67
      @tylsimys67 Рік тому

      @@lindakautzman7388 Ok... Even when I was told he was one of The Scaffolds I couldn't tell for sure...

    • @loosilu
      @loosilu Рік тому +1

      IMO They look alike in certain photos. But agreed, definitely not lookalikes. I think Mike favors the mother and Paul resembles the father.

    • @loosilu
      @loosilu Рік тому +1

      @@tylsimys67 I had to listen to several songs by Mike. On some songs he sounds EXACTLY like Paul, and it's a weird feeling.

  • @Frank-fs5nv
    @Frank-fs5nv 2 роки тому +12

    It's definitely time to start "opening up," about the past. So many from the Beatles era have passed away.

    • @hazelkagey6739
      @hazelkagey6739 3 місяці тому

      "Opening up about the past" may not happen in our lifetime I'm afraid. No one will believe the cover up.

  • @patticrichton1135
    @patticrichton1135 2 роки тому +7

    SO GOOD SEEING you AGAIN, Mike, Patti Crichton here, you look well!! The book looks FANTASTIC!!

  • @kirchfam
    @kirchfam 2 роки тому +5

    18:20 Right when we says the word thank and looks to his right, that is just like Paul.

  • @dguarino6586
    @dguarino6586 2 роки тому +18

    I was a small kid around 4 years old when I heard their first songs play on the radio in the family car. They are a part of my memories. 🙏☮️💖

  • @emiliayonekokumata7167
    @emiliayonekokumata7167 5 місяців тому +1

    The McCartneys are full of talented people! How lucky to have a brother photographer who registered the beginning of the Beatles.

  • @SusannahPerri
    @SusannahPerri 2 роки тому +4

    Hi Mike, so wonderful to see you! Even though you don't look identical to Paul, you sure remind me of him with your mannerisms and occasionally your voice. I bought your records when I was a kid and yes, I loved Sandie Shaw! I wanted to look and dress like her. I was a little California girl wishing I could run away to England during that magical time. I will check out your book. I wish you all the best!! 😊❤

  • @whatsupwithrichard
    @whatsupwithrichard 2 роки тому +51

    I have listened to quite a few interviews with Mike and he is loaded with great stories and tells them masterfully. "Thank You Very Much" for this opportunity to listen again and learn about his fine book.

    • @MyBigStory
      @MyBigStory  2 роки тому +6

      Couldn't agree more!

    • @loosilu
      @loosilu Рік тому

      He is a gifted storyteller. Isn't it interesting he was born into a family where there was one hell of a story to witness and tell?

  • @vbranco6726
    @vbranco6726 2 роки тому +21

    I loved listening to Mike share his stories, so creative, great wit and will have to go get a copy of his book! ♥️ Such a treasure to listen to and a beautiful book I am sure!!!! Thank you Mike!!!!

  • @abbyroadme
    @abbyroadme 2 роки тому +11

    Mike had a front row to history. It is amazing how his love was photography and he took photos of history.

    • @loosilu
      @loosilu Рік тому +3

      I think it's not a coincidence his love is photography. Paul is a great model, a photographer's dream. It's not a coincidence he married a photographer.

  • @blueycarlton
    @blueycarlton 2 роки тому +4

    When the misses and I were in England we did the National Trust tour of John and Paul's homes in Liverpool. At Paul's, one of our tour party asked if he could play the piano that was in the front room. He was in a Beatles cover band in New York, and so he played six or so of Paul's tunes there, it was magic. As it turned out that day, and unbeknown to us when we booked the tour months before, was Beatles Day in Liverpool!
    Both Acker Bilk and Sandy Shaw had hit records in Australia, as did Mike's Scaffold.

  • @carolynrabbani6469
    @carolynrabbani6469 2 роки тому +122

    He sounds and looks so much like Paul, and nothing at all! So cool in his own right, and I would love to have this book. Thanks for the upload.

    • @MyBigStory
      @MyBigStory  2 роки тому +11

      Hahaha we thought the same! He and 'his kid'. the book is beautiful, as are the pictures. Thanks Carolyn.

    • @zephyrsonzephyrson8618
      @zephyrsonzephyrson8618 2 роки тому +8

      To me he actually sounds a bit like George as well, but tells a story like Paul. I could listen to him all day. ☺

    • @lawrencewarren7254
      @lawrencewarren7254 2 роки тому +5

      He's taller than ol Paul.... Top man indeed

    • @novaimu
      @novaimu 2 роки тому +12

      He has a funny sense of humor. Seems like he loves his bro.

    • @thomasdunn1680
      @thomasdunn1680 2 роки тому +4

      I think he looks and sounds nothing like Paul to be honest. Sounds slightly like Harrison

  • @fasteddyuk
    @fasteddyuk 2 роки тому +9

    Mike also had his own album McGear that Paul and Linda were on. Worth a listen.

  • @Porscheman1
    @Porscheman1 2 роки тому +15

    Absolutely one of the best things I have ever heard & seen. MM is definitely a treasure! Well done!

  • @MsThebeMoon
    @MsThebeMoon 4 місяці тому +1

    Aww pictures of baby Beatles. I love looking at their teen and young adult pics. Notice that Liverpoolians definitely have their own accent. They were babies when they took over the world. Amazing. So grateful I grew up during Beatlemania. Never again was there anything like it.

  • @rheailiarome2287
    @rheailiarome2287 8 місяців тому +2

    What a lovely man he is. He speaks with such calm and tells such interesting stories that he draws you in and gives the feeling he talking to you. Bless! the McCartneys are a beautiful family🙏

  • @BeatlemaccaAR
    @BeatlemaccaAR 2 роки тому +17

    That's some brother to have eh? Always liked Mike quite a lot.

  • @gilliankingston8259
    @gilliankingston8259 6 місяців тому +2

    Thank you Mike, beautiful book definitely one I would love to have, real family - the ordinary stuff that makes memories👍🌹

  • @FinarfinNoldorin
    @FinarfinNoldorin 2 роки тому +2

    I just LOVED listening to Mr McCartney...thank you SOOOO much!

  • @ntxmt
    @ntxmt 2 роки тому +21

    Thanks for more Beatle history.

    • @MyBigStory
      @MyBigStory  2 роки тому +6

      Our pleasure. Mike is a wonderful man, who was there to see it all happen. And he's had an amazing life, in his own right! Thanks for watching and commenting.

  • @vissitorsteve
    @vissitorsteve 2 роки тому +12

    Love this guy!

  • @mallorga1965
    @mallorga1965 2 роки тому +31

    What a lovely guy this other McCartney is.

  • @stellaevans752
    @stellaevans752 2 роки тому +11

    I adore the McCartney boys, Paul and Mike and I love this video, I’m going to buy your book Mike, your a great photographer and a very interesting man, much love xxxxxxxx😘❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

  • @rahmanugrahaini
    @rahmanugrahaini 2 роки тому +15

    Feels like I could listen to you for hours. Thanks for documenting them all 🥰

  • @richardbanker6041
    @richardbanker6041 Рік тому +3

    I bought a book in the 1970s that Mike McCartney put together called “Thank U very much” with a fair number of these priceless photos and this together with Astrid Kircherr’s photos in Germany form a priceless record of early BeTles as well as photos around
    Liverpool . Mike is a born storyteller in the nicest possible sence.

  • @wokeupandsmellthecoffee214
    @wokeupandsmellthecoffee214 8 місяців тому +1

    I’ve been lucky and fortunate to meet Mike for a few drinks and a meal a couple of times in our home city of Liverpool at the South
    Liverpool photographic society Christmas dinner awards in the hard days night hotel in the city centre some
    Years ago. He’s a down to earth scouse lad like
    myself and has many stories to tell. This book is an must for any Beatles fan. Wishing you good health
    Mike (he’s not been too well recently)

  • @dixgun
    @dixgun 2 роки тому +21

    He’s got a gift for telling stories. Hypnotic. Would make sense for him to be a reader of audiobooks.

    • @olskzeri1476
      @olskzeri1476 2 роки тому +1

      He could read in "Billys back!".

    • @docsavage8640
      @docsavage8640 5 місяців тому +1

      Telling a story extemporaneously is not the same as reading a text.

  • @leonardblush2557
    @leonardblush2557 2 роки тому +40

    The 1974 album "McGear" is one of the most criminally underknown albums of the era. Mike killed the vocals, as did Paul and Co. Wings on Wings albums never played as great as they did on tracks like Giving Grease A Ride and What Do We Know. The music was a fun combo of McCartney and Scaffold. It deserves cult classic status. Mike should never doubt that that was a superb album.

    • @garytwitchett9359
      @garytwitchett9359 2 роки тому +7

      ....and all those "Arty Jokes", or was "Artichokes"? 😀👍🎶

    • @joeylau7578
      @joeylau7578 2 роки тому +14

      The man who found god on the moon. Paul's harmony is more beautiful than most of his own works. He clearly put a lot of effort in, good brotherhood

    • @Polyphemus47
      @Polyphemus47 2 роки тому +6

      Yes! One of my all-time favorite records. I loved every minute of it, and I totally agree with your sentiments. I worked for Ryko when it was re-issued on the label. McGear mania part 2, for me.

    • @loosilu
      @loosilu Рік тому +1

      thanks for the tip! going to listen to it now

  • @lehampton1
    @lehampton1 2 роки тому +2

    I can hear Paul in his voice. That Liverpudlian accent and turn of a phrase, his little asides, Bloody Hell! There’s no doubt Mike came from the same home and background as the Kid! Well done interview! Lovely.

  • @norobbery
    @norobbery 5 місяців тому +2

    This was wonderful! I love Mike's speaking; kinda ASMR. Thank you.

  • @amoruzz
    @amoruzz 2 роки тому +5

    Such a sweetness to all of this. Thank you Mike.

  • @dadduorp
    @dadduorp 2 роки тому +5

    I could listen to this guy all day-what a storyteller! And with that Liverpudlian humor, too!

  • @daveidmarx8296
    @daveidmarx8296 10 місяців тому +2

    In 2018, I bought a lava lamp from Mike's son Josh at a stoop sale in Brooklyn before he moved back to England. It was five bucks and yes, I still have it!!

  • @statesofinertia
    @statesofinertia Рік тому +2

    It was about 1978, I lived in a sleepy town on the edge of civilisation called Heswall in The Wirral. One day me and a couple of mates (we were 14 going on 15) plucked up the courage to walk up a secluded garden path and knock on the door of a small cottage set back from the road and hidden by a tall and thick privet hedge. My friend Steve lived further down the same road and so we knew exactly who lived at this cottage.
    With great trepidation and much deliberation, we gathered the courage to actually knocked on the door. The occupier answered and we no doubt blurted out something about having started a band etc etc. I fondly recall Mr Michael McCartney saying, “Lad’s, there are two things that can happen when you knock on a persons door; they can tell you to fuck off or, they can invite you in for a cup of tea”. He then said, come on in! He sat us down in his ‘den’. He talked with us… he was generous with his time. The den was mostly occupied by a massive vinyl collection taking up much of the floor space. He had a gadget, someone had made for him, to switch from reel to reel, cassette deck and turntable. The window looked over the open fields to the rear. He talked about how the house was almost completely concealed from the road and how he chose it for that reason. The house was small and we were oblivious to the fact that at this point he was a single dad managing to bring up 3 children on his own. In retrospect, I can’t imagine how he did this while always appearing so calm and good natured.
    We would go back on a regular basis. He would tell us many anecdotes about The Scaffold, The Beatles, Wings, Jimmy Hendrix and many other artists. He showed us the original prints of those great photographs he took of Paul at the family home in Liverpool, such as the one of him climbing up the drain pipe. I remember him talking about when he played Leave It to record company A&R people and they would say, the drums are lacking and he would say ‘that’s our kid yer know!’ In retrospect, it would have been so great to have recorded him talking about his experiences but, we were just kids.
    We would sometimes show up with a cassette tape to play Mike some of our our band rehearsals - recorded on a ghetto blaster in a bedroom by a four kids who could not play! But he was always constructive and encouraging when he could hear the early beginnings of a musical idea.
    Mike was different. We loved his eccentricity, such as the wall-mounted super kitsch porcelain geese in flying formation on his living room wall - except he had somehow removed the heads with surgical precision and placed them a short distance from the bodies.
    Sometime later, we somehow managed to get a support slot for a band (The Shattered Dolls) that was playing the village hall in Heswall. Mike came to the sound check. He listened and soaked up the enthusiasm from us punk kids. He told us how much it reminded him of the Beatles very early gigs playing village halls in and around Liverpool and The Wirral.
    I stayed in-touch with Mike and a few years later my mum agreed to let him store his Alvis (the same one in this video) in our garage while he was selling it as recognition for his kind generosity.
    Thank you Mike for being a good hearted person to us young hopefull’s and for adding a little bit of glamour to life in a small town.

  • @pattyfarghaly1821
    @pattyfarghaly1821 2 роки тому +3

    I've always liked Mike just for himself .❣️❣️

  • @cababyboomerq6012
    @cababyboomerq6012 2 роки тому +5

    Wow. I am from that generation and this is fascinating. I was a huge Beatle fan but it is the history part of this that is so amazing. He is a great story teller and his photos are amazing. I am a genealogy buff and his photos will be treasures to future generations.

  • @giselakunstler7622
    @giselakunstler7622 2 роки тому +2

    I am delighted to watch this video. I like Mike so very much. He was best man at our wedding at Marylebone magistrate's in Feb. 1968. Oh, so long ago. I would love to see him again.

  • @sess122
    @sess122 2 роки тому +5

    Not long ago, I met an 88 year old man named Bill who grew up in Liverpool and was very familiar with John Lennon. Although he didn't know him personally, his brother went to school with him and knew him quite well. It was so fascinating talking to him about the Beatles when they were unknown as well as living through the Nazi bombings of Liverpool during WW II. When I asked him why they concentrated on bombing Liverpool, he told me it was because it was because it was an important industrial/shipping harbor. Could have spoken with him for hours. Unfortunately, he passed away recently and took those fascinating memories and stories with him.

    • @davidmcgowen4594
      @davidmcgowen4594 2 роки тому +2

      When she was younger, my wife worked with a lady from Liverpool who used to go the the Cavern lunchtime gigs as a girl :)

  • @denisesaxton790
    @denisesaxton790 2 роки тому +34

    Love that he is sharing these unique photos and stories. I own one of his record albums under the name Mike McGear.

    • @MyBigStory
      @MyBigStory  2 роки тому +9

      Indeed! He's a talented man, Mr McGear/McCartney!

  • @nedadevcic5840
    @nedadevcic5840 2 роки тому +6

    A Very nice and natural person. A natural talent, so fascinatingly normal👍💞thanks 🙏👍

  • @davidwp5761
    @davidwp5761 2 роки тому +13

    Mike is mesmerizing, I could listen to him for hours. What great insight, I hope one day to have this book.

  • @annberrios9759
    @annberrios9759 2 роки тому +14

    They were well raised and well loved

  • @TheGrouch2000
    @TheGrouch2000 2 роки тому +6

    That was great Mike! A sad indictment that he had to change his name, but nonetheless made it in his own right (write). Live on Lily the Pink.

  • @garyhynes
    @garyhynes 2 роки тому +8

    This is cool, and makes me sad and nostalgic but in a good way.

  • @adrianburn7178
    @adrianburn7178 2 роки тому +9

    Thanks for the fascinating recollections

  • @kengause9259
    @kengause9259 2 роки тому +7

    Great video. Fascinating photos. Big fan of the Beatles growing up, as well as many of their influences. I used to see Little Richard in and around Tullahoma and Lynchburg, TN where he lived in his later years. He liked wearing gold shoes.

  • @robertavila3328
    @robertavila3328 2 роки тому +18

    Good stuff, I want the book !

    • @MyBigStory
      @MyBigStory  2 роки тому +8

      You're not alone! It really is a work of art. Thanks for watching and engaging with us, Robert.

  • @Ian-gw2vx
    @Ian-gw2vx Рік тому +2

    In 1997 I was helping shoot a charity run for a photographer friend at Liverpool town hall. I was in the road waiting for them to start the race but this other photographer seemed to be getting in my way. It was a bit frusyrating so I kept moving around away from him, but he always seemed to be in the shot. Later on he was in the doorway of the townhall and politely let me through like a gent. I told my friend thats the guy who was a bit in my way. He then td me it was Mike McCartney. I didn't realise which is a shame but he was just engrossed in his work as I was.

  • @AirborneAirAssault6565
    @AirborneAirAssault6565 2 роки тому +6

    A special moment in Time! Thank you for sharing!

  • @denisecaringer4726
    @denisecaringer4726 2 роки тому +4

    Charm runs in the family. This was such fun. Thank you.

  • @maryoconnell3857
    @maryoconnell3857 2 роки тому +3

    He does sound like Paul!!! Incredible!

  • @zackzallie8735
    @zackzallie8735 2 роки тому +52

    Mike McCartney prove us how much important family is to everyone, even when you're famous. And I'm glad he's still in touch with Paul until today. Long live both. To hell with the PID conspiracy mofos. Paul is alive!

    • @psychedelicprawncrumpets9479
      @psychedelicprawncrumpets9479 2 роки тому +9

      He looks nothing like Paul... The conspiracy lives 😜

    • @sharynloshakoff5404
      @sharynloshakoff5404 2 роки тому +11

      @@psychedelicprawncrumpets9479 Mike looks like their father, and Paul favors their mother.

    • @YorkyOne
      @YorkyOne 2 роки тому

      @@psychedelicprawncrumpets9479
      I have two cousins who are brothers. One takes after their mother's side of the family the other after their father's. They look nothing like each other.
      The 'conspiracy' is for gullible halfwits.

    • @mozdaboz
      @mozdaboz 2 роки тому

      @@psychedelicprawncrumpets9479 His eyes and nose says otherwise foilhat wearer...

    • @ChannelOutScotia
      @ChannelOutScotia Рік тому +3

      @@sharynloshakoff5404 Funny, I think Paul looks like his late dad, and from the grainy photos of Mary McCartney, I think Mike takes after her more.

  • @lesleyloyola1669
    @lesleyloyola1669 2 роки тому +19

    Such amazing stories. Thank you for sharing!

    • @MyBigStory
      @MyBigStory  2 роки тому +2

      Glad you like them! Thanks so much for your kind words, Lesley.

  • @nervo6321
    @nervo6321 2 роки тому +1

    Mike nice guy ...took some priceless photographs

  • @gordonmorris6359
    @gordonmorris6359 2 роки тому +18

    Mike's singing voice shares the family resemblance with Paul's like John's and Julian's (and Sean's), but also Mike sounds a bit like John and George too! So, if he'd have remained as their drummer, he'd have been a singing drummer, but VERY different from Ringo, who's voice was rarely used in their beautiful harmonies, imagine four part Beatles harmonies! Mike's singing alone and with Paul's awesome vocals and musical input make the McGear album a MUST HEAR:
    ua-cam.com/video/GchtzQi6K80/v-deo.html

  • @kaysguy
    @kaysguy 5 місяців тому +1

    Mike's music is good in his own right. I love the McGear albums.

  • @annbeth6730
    @annbeth6730 2 роки тому +2

    I love everything about the Beatles

  • @lensquires8466
    @lensquires8466 2 роки тому +1

    Loved the picture with his Dad. Things happen when you're busy making plans..

  • @MPKleiman
    @MPKleiman 2 роки тому +4

    Mike McGear is also a superb singer. Check out his work with the Scaffold and his solo album, McGear, released in the mid-1970s.

  • @roberthayes9842
    @roberthayes9842 2 роки тому +6

    I remember the Scaffold, known as Mike Mcgear, fascinating insight to the early life of the Beatles, when every fourteen year old girl had a scouse accent throughout the country, great looking book Mike happy day's

  • @pompom11
    @pompom11 2 роки тому +5

    I’m almost 67 years old, avid life long Beatles fan. And I NEVER knew Paul had a brother. What a sweet guy!

  • @stratplayr6997
    @stratplayr6997 3 місяці тому

    Lately, I've been getting into learning more about The Beatles in their Liverpool days and early life. We know so much about them from the Ed Sullivan show onwards, but hearing stories like this from the people who knew them best is just gold. I have Mike McCartney's book called "Remember", it's got a lot of great photos and commentary from Mike. I'll have to look out for this book as well.

  • @SEHSEH33
    @SEHSEH33 2 роки тому +2

    Amazingly talented family, from their parents to the boys!! God Bless - the world os a better place because of families like these!!!

  • @jakeet999
    @jakeet999 2 роки тому +6

    Great pics, very interesting and a defo surprise

    • @MyBigStory
      @MyBigStory  2 роки тому +2

      Glad you enjoyed it

    • @jakeet999
      @jakeet999 2 роки тому

      @@MyBigStory Yeah it was a magical time growing up in the pool then, those special times in the 1960s are edged in history like ur pics, future generations will look at them with fondness I am sure, even in this insane world of cancel culture and PC

  • @favouritemoon4133
    @favouritemoon4133 2 роки тому +1

    Well that was fun! I had no idea some of my favourite early photos of The Beatles were taken by Mike McCartney...and now there are
    some new favourites to add to them.

  • @triplejazzmusicisall1883
    @triplejazzmusicisall1883 Рік тому +2

    There is something I will always love and prefer with film photography rather than digital. You only had 12 to 24 chances to get a classic photograph and you couldn't tamper excessively with it afterwards. That naturalness is just so evident and classy in photographs from pre-digital times.
    I think Linda was primarily film based even when digitial had taken its hold. Mary is more modern. Both ladies and Mike's work are outstanding. Mike looks very much like his father Jim. I understand and love the fact he values these earlier works because they capture the reality of a family in a time and period before fame, when of course photographs become staged.

  • @Youareme42o
    @Youareme42o 9 місяців тому +1

    This is a great listen and thank you for the amazing photos and work

  • @debbieramsey-hanks3757
    @debbieramsey-hanks3757 2 роки тому +3

    Thank you such a sweet an endearing sharing of your life side by side with your brother and documenting the moments in all families that truly matter.

  • @bellsca1917
    @bellsca1917 Рік тому +2

    I just love him! So interesting, and to have these shots, what a treasure. I always love the beatles sense of humor, looks like it's a liverpool thing . Can't wait to get the book!

    • @frankhornby6873
      @frankhornby6873 8 місяців тому +1

      us scousers just want to see the funny side of everything...

  • @kyliestorm_music
    @kyliestorm_music 2 роки тому +9

    Great 👍

  • @f5mando
    @f5mando 2 роки тому +3

    The Scaffold were a great band in their own right. Poets and humorists, all. Lilly the Pink, Thank You Very Much, etc. Brill! Mike McGear, he was back then.

  • @inyourfaceguitar5454
    @inyourfaceguitar5454 2 роки тому +2

    Very informative interview. Can't wait to see the photos.